529 College Savings
Calculator
Estimate how your 529 grows by the time college begins, compare it to projected costs, and see your funding gap or surplus. Model multiple children, reverse-calculate the monthly contribution you need, and get guidance on what to do when you're over-funded.
| Age | 529 Balance | Annual Contribution | Interest Earned | Projected Cost (That Yr) |
|---|
This calculator provides a hypothetical illustration for educational purposes only. It assumes constant rates of return and cost inflation with no market fluctuations, and does not account for taxes, fees, plan-specific rules, investment allocation changes, contribution limits, or future changes in tax law or benefit rules.
529 plans offer tax-advantaged treatment for qualified education expenses under current federal law. Qualified expenses include tuition, fees, room and board (if enrolled at least half-time), books, and required supplies. Up to $10,000/year may be used for K-12 tuition at eligible schools. Rules vary by state and may change.
The SECURE 2.0 Act (2022) allows unused 529 funds to be rolled to a Roth IRA for the beneficiary, subject to conditions including a 15-year account holding period, annual Roth IRA contribution limits, and a $35,000 lifetime cap. Consult a qualified professional before acting on this strategy.
Gift tax rules: contributions to a 529 are treated as completed gifts. The annual gift exclusion is $18,000/donor/beneficiary in 2026. Superfunding (5-year election) allows up to $90,000 per beneficiary. Contributions exceeding these amounts may require Form 709 filing.
Advisory services and securities offered through Lincoln Investment, Registered Investment Adviser, Broker-Dealer, Member FINRA / SIPC. lincolninvestment.com